Differential Diagnosis for Cellulitis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Erysipelas: This is a type of cellulitis that is typically caused by Streptococcus bacteria, characterized by a well-defined, raised edge and is often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Contact dermatitis: An inflammatory skin reaction that can mimic cellulitis, caused by exposure to irritants or allergens.
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): A chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy skin that can sometimes be mistaken for cellulitis.
- Insect bites or stings: Can cause localized inflammation and swelling that may resemble cellulitis.
- Superficial thrombophlebitis: Inflammation of a vein just under the skin, which can cause redness, swelling, and warmth similar to cellulitis.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Necrotizing fasciitis: A severe, life-threatening infection that destroys tissue under the skin, requiring prompt surgical intervention.
- Gas gangrene: A potentially deadly condition caused by Clostridium bacteria, characterized by gas production in tissues and rapid progression.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in a deep vein, which can cause swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected limb, and can lead to pulmonary embolism if not treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Erythema migrans (Lyme disease): A rash that can appear as a expanding red patch, often with a central clearing, caused by the bite of an infected tick.
- Sweet syndrome (acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis): A rare condition characterized by fever, neutrophilia, and tender, erythematous skin lesions.
- Pyoderma gangrenosum: A rare skin condition that causes painful ulcers, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise.